Drain control mechanism for washing apparatus



Sept. 22, 1953 E. SNSTODDARD 2,652,854

DRAIN CONTROL MECHANISM FOR WASHING APPARATUS Original Filed April 8.1949 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 FIG: n

INVENTOR. Edgar S. Stoddard Attys Sept. 22, 1953 E. s. STODDARD DRAINCONTROL MECHANISM FOR WASHING APPARATUS 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 Original FiledApril 8. 1949 FIG. 2

mum-mum INVENTOR Edgar S. Stoddard BY M MFA l M Sept. 22, 1953 E. s.STODDARD 2,652,854

DRAIN CONTROL MECHANISM FOR WASHING APPARATUS Original Filed April 8.1949 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 4s I W INVENTOR.

FIG. 3 Edgar s. Stoddard Sept. 22, 1953 E. s. STODDARD DRAIN CONTROLMECHANISM FOR WASHING APPARATUS 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 Original Filed April 8.1949 Inventor Edgar S. Stoddard Mfi AHVS

E. s. STODDARD 2,5 2,854 DRAIN CONTROL MECHANISM FOR WASHING APPARATUSSgpt. 22, 1953 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 Original Filed April 8. 1949 Edgar s.smwd Patented Sept. 22, 1953 DRAIN CONTROL MECHANISM FOR WASHINGAPPARATUS Edgar S. Stoddard, Berwyn, IlL, assignor to General ElectricCompany, a corporation of New York Original application April 8, 1949,Serial No. 86,291. Divided and this application April 28 1951, SerialNo. 223,575

8 Claims. (01. 137-57 7) The present invention relates to washing ap-.

paratus and more particularly to improved dishwashing apparatus of thegeneral character of that disclosed in the copending application ofForrest A. Walker, Serial No. 57,448, filed October 30, 1948. Thisapplication is a division of the copending application of Edgar S.Stoddard, Serial No. 86,291, filed April 8, 1949.

The dishwashing apparatus disclosed in the Walker application mentionedis of the timed washing cycle type that performs automatically and inpredetermined sequence given steps including spraying, washing, rinsingand drying of the dishes and other utensils contained therein. Thisapparatus comprises a cabinet housing a vertically disposed vatincluding a front opening and a door for closing the opening, the doorbeing mounted for movements between a substantially vertical closedposition and .a substantially horizontal open position. In thisapparatus, the vat and door are so constructed and arranged that theutilization of a sealing gasket therebetween for the purpose ofretaining the washing fluid or liquid in the vat is unnecessary.

It is a general object of the present invention to provide dishwashingapparatus of the character described incorporating improved andsimplified structure in order to increase the efliciency of operationand to reduce the cost of manufacture thereof.

Another object of the invention is to provide in washing apparatus ofthe type noted, an improved arrangement for selectively controlling thedraining of washing fluid from the vat that incorporates no nice fittingvalve elements and valve seats.

A further objectof the invention is to provide in washing apparatus ofthe type noted, an improved drain arrangement that incorporates aminimum number of simple operating 2 stood by reference to the followingspecification taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, inwhich Figure 1 is a front elevational view, partly broken away, ofdishwashing apparatus embodying the present invention; Fig. 2 is avertical sectional view of the dishwashing apparatus, taken in thedirection of the arrows along the line 2-2 in Fig. 1; Fig. 3 is afragmentary horizontal sectional view of the dishwashing apparatus,taken in the direction of the arrows along the line 3-3 in Fig. 2; Fig.4 is a fragmentary plan view of a portion of the bottom wall of the vatand the associated flexible drain hose; Fig. 5 is a fragmentary verticalsectional view of the parts shown in Fig. 4; and Fig. 6 is an electricdiagram of the timer and the circuit control arrangement incorporated inthe dishwashing apparatus.

Referring now to Figs. 1 to 3, inclusive, of the drawings thedishwashing apparatus 18 there illustrated. and embodying the featuresof the present invention, is of the general character of that disclosedin the previously mentioned Walker application and comprises an outercasing or cabinet II provided with top and bottom walls I! and I3,opposed side walls 14 and I5, and rear and front walls l6 and ii. Thebottom wall I3 is upwardly offset adjacent to the central portionthereof in order to provide an inwardly directed flange l8 having anopening is therein accommodating the plumbing extending to the exteriorthrough the lower portion ofthe cabinet II. Also the bottom wall l3 hasa plurality of downwardly depressed feet 20 formed therein for thepurpose of supporting the apparatus 10 upon a floor, or the like. Thefront wall I1 is rearwardly offset adjacent to the bottom wall I3providing connecting substantially vertical and horizontal panels 2| and22 adjacent to the front of the cabinet il in order to define afoot-receiving recess, permitting a person to work close to the front ofthe cabinet I I. Also the front wall I1 is provided with outwardlyprojecting top and side flange structure 23 defining a front opening 24in the upper portion thereof, the

front opening 24 being offset toward the right. closer to the right-handside wall 15 than to the left-hand side wall l4. Further, the front.wall 1 l1 carries a front panel 25 having an opening 26 formed in theupper portion thereof and offset toward the right-hand side thereof, thefront opening 26 surrounding the front opening 24 and overlying aconsiderable marginal portion thereof adjacent to the lower portion ofthe front wall [1. The front panel 25 is provided with an inwardlydirected marginal flange 21 surrounding the front opening 26 and lyingwithin the top and side flange-structure 23. Also the front panel 25 isprovided with an inwardly directed boundary flange 28, the top and sideportions thereof being respectively disposed substantially flush withthe top wall I2 and the side walls I4 and I5, and the bottom portionthereof underlying the horizontal panel 22. More specifically, the frontpanel 25 is removably secured to the front wall H by an arrangementincluding a pair of laterally spaced-apart screws 29 extending throughthe top of the marginal flange 21 and the adjacent top flange structure23 and by a pair of laterally spaced-apart screws 30 extending throughthe bottom of the boundary flange 28 and the adjacent horizontal flange22. Thus it will be understood that the front panel 25 conceals thefront wall |1 when it is secured thereto by the screws 29 and 36 andthatthe front panel 25 may be readily removed from the front wall H byremoving the screws 26 and 30.

The cabinet houses a substantially vertically disposed vat 3| arrangedin the upper portion thereof and offset toward the right closer to theside wall |-than to the side wall M. The vat 3| comprises top and bottomwalls 32 and 33, opposed side walls 34 and 35 and a rear wall 36; thetop and bottom walls 32 and 33 and the side walls 34 and 35 terminateina forwardly directed doorway 31 having a front opening 36 arranged insubstantial registry with the front openings 24 and 26. Moreparticularly the top and side portions of the doorway 31 terminate in anoutwardly and rearwardly rolled rim 39, while the bottom wall 33 isprovided with a forwardly projecting flange 40 terminating in anupwardly and outwardly extending ledge or lip 4| extending between theside portions of the doorway 31. The ledge 4| is directed first upwardlyand outwardly and then downwardly terminating adjacent to the frontopening 38 of the doorway 31, whereby the upper edge of the ledge 4| isdisposed considerably above the bottom flange 46 and consequently thebottom wall 33. A substantially centrally disposed downwardly depressedsump 42 is formed in the bottom wall 33 and communicates with adownwardly embossed depression or groove 43 formed substantiallycentrally in the bottom flange 40 and extending forwardly toward thecentral portion of the ledge 4|. Further, an upstanding invertedsubstantially U-shaped inwardly embossed vat rib 44 is formed in the topwall 32 and the side walls 34 and 35 at the junction thereof with thecorresponding portions of the doorway 31, the vat rib 44 includingdownwardly extending legs 45 terminating just above the bottom flange 40and well behind and below the ledge 4|.

The front of the vat 3| is secured and positioned within the cabinet Hby a three-point support, while the rear of the vat 3| is secured andpositioned in the cabinet II by a two-point support. More particularly,a top tongue 46 is secured to the top central portion of the rolled rim39 and projects forwardly therefrom through a top slot 41 formed in thefront wall |1 above the top of the front opening 24; while two sidetongues 48 are respectively secured to the side central portions of therolled rim 39 and project forwardly therefrom through two side slotsformed in the front wall H on opposite sides of the front opening 24.

The rear wall I6 is provided with an inwardly directed top flange 52 andtwo laterally spaced- 4 apart inwardly directed side flanges 53 and 64defining an enlarged opening or hole therein through which the vat 3|may be readily inserted or removed with respect to the cabinet Moreparticularly, a first rearwardly directed fixture 56 provided withangularly disposed arms spot welded or otherwise secured to the side andrear walls 34 and 36 is carried on the rear left-hand side of the vat3|; while a second rearwardly directed fixture 51 provided withangularly disposed arms spot welded or otherwise secured to the side andrear walls 35 and 36 is carried on the rear right-hand side of the vat3|. The hole 55 disposed in the rear wall I6 is laterally offset so thatit is closer to'the right-hand side wall |5 than to the left-hand sidewall l4 and the fixtures 56 and 51 are respectively removably secured tothe associated flanges 53 and 54 by two bolts 58 and 59 provided withcooperating nuts. Thus it will be understood that after the vat 3|,together with its attachments subsequently de scribed, have beenassembled, the vat 3| as a unit may be readily inserted through the hole55 in the rear wall I6 of the cabinet II, the tongues 46 and 48 slidingthrough the cooperating slots 41 and 49. Also the fixtures 56 and 51 arese cured to the adjacent flanges 53 and 54 utilizing the bolts 58 and 59and the cooperating nuts. Subsequently the front panel 25 may be placedupon the front wall l1 and secured in place employing the screws 29 and36 in order to conceal the ends of the tongues 46 and 48.

The cabinet II is provided with a front door 60 that comprises an outerbody sheet 6| terminating in an inverted substantially U-shapedrearwardly directed marginal flang including top and side portions, notshown, and an inner body sheet 62 terminating in an' invertedsubstantially U-shaped rearwardly directed marginal flange including topand opposed side portions, not shown. The inner body sheet 62 isarranged in nested relation within the outer body sheet 6| and suitablysecured in place so that the principal portions of th body sheets 6| and62 are arranged in upwardly approaching spaced-apart relation. Furtherthe inner body sheet 62 is provided with an outwardly directed invertedsubstantially U-shaped marginal flange, not shown, that cooperates withthe front surface of the associated vat rib 44 when th door 66 cccupiesits closed position. In order to retain the door 60 in its closedposition a latch element 63 is secured to the central upper portionthereof and cooperates with a resilient corrosion-resistant sprin 64secured within the upper central portion of the doorway 31. Also theinner body sheet 62 carries inverted substantially U-shaped rearwardlydirected baffle structure, not shown, that projects through the vat rib44 into the interior' of the vat 3| in order to prevent the entry ofwashing liquid into the doorway 31. More particularly, the bafflstructure, not shown, carried by the inner body sheet 62 cooperates withinwardly directed baffle structure formed in the side walls 34 and 35 ofthe vat 3| in order to complete the gasketless vat and doorconstruction. The inwardly directed bafile structure formed in theright-hand side wall 35 is indicated generally at 65; while the inwardlydirected baiile structur formed in the left-hand side wall 34 is notshown; these baifle structures being disposed rearwardly of theupstanding legs 45 of the vat rib 44. Also the right-hand side wall 35of the vat 3| carries an inwardly directed embossed trackway indicatedgenerally at 66 while the left-hand side wall 34 of the vat 3| carriesan inwardly directed embossed trackway, not shown; which opposedtrackways are adapted to support movable dish-carrying rack structure,not shown.

The door 60 is mounted adjacent to the lower edge thereof within the vat3| rearwardly of and below the front ledge 4| by a hinge arrangementincluding two laterally disposed substantially identical hingemechanisms, whereby the lower ends of the outer and inner body sheets 6|and 62 are disposed in straddling relation with respect to the frontledge 4|. More particularly, the right-hand hinge mechanism is indicatedgenerally at 61 and comprises a first hinge element 68 secured to theflange 48 provided on the bottom wall 33 and a second hinge element 69secured to the front surface of the inner body sheet 62 and disposedbetween the inner and outer body sheets 62 and 6|. Also this mechanismcomprises a bumper member 10 secured to the lower surface of the flange40 exteriorly of the vat 3| and adapted to cooperate with a bumpermember 1| carried by the hinge element 69. Also a guide track I2 issecured to the rear surface of the inner body sheet 62 and disposed overthe hinge element 69; and a detergent cup, not shown, is carried by thelower portion of the inner body sheet 62 in the space between the bodysheets 62 and 6| and opening into the interior of the vat 3| for apurpose more fully explained hereinafter. Further, the inner and outerbody sheets are restrained in spaced-apart relation by an upwardly andforwardly directed laterally extending bracing sheet 13 secured to thefront surface of the inner body sheet 62 and abutting the rear surfaceof the outer body sheet 6|. Further, the hinge mechanism 61 comprises apintle 14 carried by the hinge element 68, a cooperating saddle I5carried by the hinge element 69, and a locking pin 16 carried by thehinge element 69 and cooperating with a locking slot 11 formed in thehinge element 68. Finally a handle 18 is secured to the upper centralfront of the outer body sheet 6| for the purpose of facilitatingmovement of the door 60 between its open and closed positions; while thelower edge of the outer body sheet 6| carries a laterally extendingflange I9 that cooperates with a rearwardly directed ledge 90 formed onthe front panel 25 just below the bottom of the front opening 26 formedtherein for the purpose of lending a finished appearance to the cabinetII when the door 60 occupies its closed position. Finally, a door switch8| is secured to the front edge of the front ledge 4| and cooperateswith a projection 82 carried by the outer body sheet 6|.

In view of the foregoing description of the construction of the door 68it will be understood that the door 68 is movable into a closed positionwith respect to the doorway 37, at which time the outer body sheet 6|occupies a substantially vertical position and is disposed substantiallyflush with the front surface of the front panel 25, and at which timethe inner body sheet 62 is disposed in an upwardly and forwardlyinclined position. The door 60 is restrained in its closed position bythe cooperation between the latch elements 63 and 64; whereby the bafliestructure, not shown, carried by the inner body sheet 62 cooperates withthe baflie structure 66, etc., and the vat rib 44 carried by the vat 3|in order to prevent the escape of washing liquid from the doorway 31.Also at this time the'projection 82 carried by the outer body sheet 6|engages the plunger of the door switch 8|, operating the door switch 8|to its closed-circuit position for a purpose more fully explainedhereinafter. Also the door 60 is movable into an open position withrespect to the doorway 31, at which time the operating the door switch8| into its open-circuit position for a purpose more fully explainedhereinafter. Also as the door 68 is moved into its final open positionthe bumper member carried by the hinge element 69 engages the bumpermember 10 in order rigidly to support the door 60 in its open position:and the locking pin 16 carried by the hinge element 69 enters thelocking slot 11 provided in the hinge element 68 in order positively toprevent removal of the door 60 while it occupies its open position. Atthis time while the door 60 occupies its open position the dishrack, notshown, may be moved through the doorway 31 into and out of the vat 3|.More particularly, the rack, not shown, may be rolled from a supportedposition upon the guideway 66, etc., within the vat 3| to a positionexteriorly of the vat 3| upon the guide track 12, etc., carried by theinner body sheet 62; whereupon dishes may be readily loaded or unloadedwith respect to the rack. Thus it will be understood that when the door68 occupies its open position it supports the movable rack, not shown,permitting the ready placement and removal of dishes and other utensilswith respect thereto.

In passing it is noted that when the door 66 occupies an intermediateposition with respect to its closed and open positions described abovethat it 'may be completely removed from the doorway 31 by virtue of thefact that the saddle 15 is disengageable with respect to the pintle 14prior to entry of the locking pin I6 into the locking slot TI.

The construction and arrangement of the door 68 and the cooperatingbaffle structure 65, etc., and the vat rib 44, as well as thearrangement for movably supporting the rack structure, not shown, withinthe vat 3| and upon the door 60, have not been disclosed in great detailin the present application, since these arrangements form no part of thepresent invention, and are disclosed and claimed in the previouslymentioned Walker application. Similarly, the construction andarrangement of the hinge mechanism 61 has not been disclosed in greatdetail in the present application, since this arrangement forms no partof the present invention, and is disclosed and claimed in the copendingapplication of Frank D. Low, Serial No. 61,633, filed November 23, 1948,now Patent No. 2,573,798, granted November 6, 1951.

The apparatus I0 further comprises an impeller 83 which is provided withblades 84 that may have any suitable shape, the important feature beingthat the blades 84 are given a shape such that the washing liquidsupplied to the vat 3| and allowed to accumulate in the sump 42 isthrown upwardly and outwardly in an efiicient manner through the rackstructure, not shown. The impeller 83 may be formed of any suitablematerial such, for example, as Textolite and is mounted upon asubstantially vertically disposed operating shaft 85 of an electricmotor 86 arranged below the sump 42. More particularly, the sump 42' isprovided with an upwardly directed emboss 81 that terminates in asubstantially vertically disposed tube 88 through which the shaft 85 ofthe motor 86 projects and which is surrounded by the hub of the impeller83. The hub of the impeller 83 may be removably secured to the upper endof the shaft 85 by an arrangement including a bolt 89 extending throughan associated spacing collar 98 arranged within the tube 88 and abuttingthe upper end of the shaft 85, the end of the bolt 89 being threadedinto a corresponding recess provided in the upper end of the shaft 85.Further, the shaft 85 carries a disk 9| disposed below the spacingcollar 98 and the bottom of the tube 88 within the emboss 81 in order tofling from the shaft 85 any washing liquid that may escape from the vat3| into the upper open end of the tube 88 between the hub of theimpeller 83 and the wall of the tube 88. This arrangement permits readyrotation of the impeller 83 by the motor 86 and prevents the escape ofany substantial amount of washing liquid from the vat 3| through thetube 88.

The motor 86 is arranged in a substantially vertical position and isprovided with an upper end bell 92 that is secured to the emboss 81 byan arrangement including two angularly spacedapart brackets 93. Moreparticularly, each of the brackets 93 comprises a curved body 94 and twodownwardly extending legs 95, the body 94 being secured to the lowersurface of the emboss 81 and the two legs 95 being secured to the upperend bell 92. Specifically, the body 94 of each bracket 93 is secured tothe lower surface .of the emboss 81 by two screws 96; while each of thelegs 95 is secured to the end bell 92 by an upwardly extending bolt andcooperating nut 91. Accordingly, the motor 86 may be removed from thesupporting brackets 93 by removing the four nuts 91 after the bolt 89has been removed from the shaft 85.

A ring 98 is arranged within the vat 3| in surrounding relation withrespect to the tube 88 and carries four angularly spaced-apart -inwardlydirected fixtures 99 through which the four screws 96 extend.Accordingly, the screws 96 firmly clamp the ring 98 in place on theupper surface of the emboss 81 and the two brackets 93 in place upon thelower surface of the emboss 81. Finally, an upstanding cylindricalreticulated screen I88 is removably carried by the ring 98 insurrounding relation with respect to the blades 84 of the impeller 83.The lower edge of the reticulated screen I86 abuts the adjacent uppersurface of the emboss 81 and serves as a strainer to prevent foreignarticles suspended in the washing liquid contained in the sump 42 frombeing caught by the blades 84 of the impeller 83 and flung upwardlythrough the dish-supporting rack, not shown.

Provided in the space in the cabinet II below the vat 3| is asuitableliquid supply pipe I81 which is adapted to be connected to a source ofcleansing or washing liquid, not shown, by coupling units, or the like,not shown. For example, in the event the washing liquid is water, thesource of supply may be a convenient hot water tank, or the like. Thewashing liquid is piped from the bottom of the cabinet II upwardlybetween the rear wall I6 thereof and the rear wall 36 of the vat 3| by aflexible conduit I88 and into the top wall 32 of the vat 3|.

Specifically, a spraying device I 89 is arranged within an upwardlyextending emboss II8 formed in the top wall 32 of the vat 3| so that thewashing liquid may be sprayed down through the rack structure, notshown, carried within the vat 3| and allowed to accumulate in the sump42. The liquid supply pipe I81 is suitably connected to an inlet valvemechanism III of the solenoid dash-pot type arranged to discharge intothe conduit I88. The inlet valve mechanism III is normally biased to itsclosed position in order to cut off the supply of washing liquid fromthe liquid supply pipe I81 to the conduit I88, but is provided with anassociated solenoid II 2 that is adapted when energized to operate theinlet valve mechanism III to its open posi tion in order that washingliquid may be supplied from the liquid supply conduit I81 via the casingof the inlet valve mechanism III, the conduit I88 and the sprayingdevice I89 into the upper portion of the vat 3|. Subsequently, when thesolenoid H2 is de-energized the inlet valve mechanism III is returnedslowly to its closed position cutting off the communication r betweenthe liquid supply pipe I81 and the spraying device I89. The provision ofthe slowclosing inlet valve mechanism III eliminates water hammer in theplumbing preceding the liquid supply pipe I81. Also, a strainer, notshown, is incorporated in the casing of the inlet valve mechanism III inorder positively to prevent foreign material in the liquid supply pipeI81 from being conducted into the liquid supply conduit I88 and thenceinto the spraying device I89.

Also provided in the lower portion of the cabinet I I below the vat 3|is a drain pipe I I3 that is connected through a suitable trap, notshown, to a drain connection. The drain pipe II3 forms a part offlexible drain mechanism I28 that is incorporated in the apparatus I8and shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive. Specifically, this drain mechanismI28 comprises a first hollow drain fixture I2 I, a second hollow drainfixture I 22 and a communicating section of flexible conduit or hoseI23. Preferably the hose I 23 comprises a plurality of plies of fabric,not shown, embedded in rubber to form the wall thereof and an enclosedhelical corrosion-resistant spring I24 arranged therein and embedded inthe rubber wall in order to prevent collapse of the hose I23 and to lendresiliency thereto. Also it is preferable that the drain fixtures I2Iand I22 be formed of elastic rubber and molded directly in place uponthe opposite ends of the hose I23. More particularly, a drain openingI25 of a predetermined contour, generally elliptical in plan, is formedin the bottom wall 33- of the vat3| in the lowermost portion of the sump42 and frictionally receives the outer end of the drain fixture I2I.Specifically, the drain opening I 25 occupies a position disposed on aline drawn between the center of the impeller 83 and the corner betweenthe side wall 34 and the rear Wall 36 of the vat 3|; and a depressionI26 substantially bead-like in shape is formed in the bottom wall 33adjacent to and below the drain opening I25. The drain fixture |2Icomprises a body having a deep surrounding recess I21 therein definingspaced-apart flanges I28 and I29, the configuration of the base of therecess I21 substantially conforming to the contour of the drain openingI25, and an integral bead I38 being formed in the lower portion of thebody and disposed in the recess I26. The end of the drain fixture I2| isremovably and frictionally 9 secured to the bottom wall 33 withinthedrain opening I25 with the flanges I28 and I29 disposed respectivelyinteriorly and exteriorly of the bottom wall 33 and with the bead I30positioned in the recess I26. A strainer I3I is arranged within the endof the drain fixture I2I within the sump 42 for the purpose of holdingthe drain fixture I2I firmly in place within the drain opening I25 andin order to prevent the washing liquid draining thereinto from the sump42 from carrying .foreign objects therewith into the drain'fixturerespective inner and outer surfaces of the bottom wall 33 surroundingthe drain opening I in order to provide a fluid-tight connection betweenthe interior of the vat 3| at the bottom of the sump 42 and the interiorof the drain fixture I2 I. The bead I'carried by the lower portion ofthe body of the drain fixture I2I lies in the recess I26 formed in thebottom wall 33 adjacent to the drain opening I25 and fills up the recessI26 so that a smooth continuous surface is provided between the bottomof the sump 42 and the interior of the drain fixture I2I so as toprevent washing liquid from standing in the sump 42 around the bottom ofthe strainer I3I when the interior of the drain fixture I 2| is placedinto communication with the drain pipe II3 as explained more fullybelow.

The drain fixture I22 comprises a body provided with a flange I 34disposed at the upper portion thereof that is slidably received in asupporting bracket I35 secured to the bottom wall 33 somewhat to theright of the front central portion of the sump 42. More particularly,the bracket I35 comprises two laterally spaced-apart upwardly directedfront legs I36 and a centrally disposed rearwardly extending leg I31,which legs I36 and I31 are spot welded, or otherwise secured, to thebottom wall 33 adjacent to the sump 42. Also the bracket I35 comprisestwo downwardly and inwardly turned arms I 38 defining a clip thatslidably receives the flange I34 provided on the drain fixture I22, theflange I34 being secured in place by an associated screw I39 extendingthrough a hole provided therein and threaded into the body of thebracket I35. The body of the drain fixture I22 terminates in adownwardly extending barrel I39 into which a tube I40 is positioned andfrictionally retained in place by a collar I4I surrounding the barrelI39 adjacent to the lower end thereof. The lower end of the tube I40 isprovided with an externally threaded portion I42 that receives aninternally threaded collar or union I43 that is adapted to engage anoutwardly extending flange I44 provided on the top of the drain pipe II3. Accordingly, the collar I43 threaded upon the portion I42 of thetube I40 securely clamps the flange I44 to the adjacent end of the tubeI40, and a gasket, not shown, may be positioned therebetween in orderpositively to insure that a detachable liquid-tight connection isprovided between the drain pipe II3 and the barrel I39 of the drainfixture I22. Also the drain fixture I22 comprises an outwardly extendingbarrel I45 that is molded onto the adjacent end of the hose I23 andarranged in communicating 10 relation with the barrel I39. Further, anupstanding breather tube I46 is molded into the barrel I45 andcommunicates between the interior thereof and the exterior.

In view of the foregoing description of the drain mechanism I20, it willbe understood that the first elastic drain fixture I2I is frictionallysecured within the drain opening I25 formed in the bottom wall 33 withinthe sump 42 in order to provide a liquid-tight connection therebetweenand that the interior of the hollow drain fixture I2I communicatesthrough the hollow hose I23 with the interior of the hollow drainfixture I22. The drain fixture I22 is removably secured by the bracketI35 to the exterior surface of the bottom wall 33 adjacent to the sump42 and supports the communicating drain pipe II3 providing aliquid-tight connection therebetween. The drain fixture I22 is angularlyoff-set with respect to the drain fixture I2I by an angle ofapproximately degrees and the interior of the hollow fixtures I2I andI22 are interconnected by the curved hose I23 as clearly shown in Fig.5. Specifically, the intermediate portion or section of the hose I23extends laterally from below the bottom wall 33 to the left beyond theside wall 34 toward the side wall I4. 3 Thus the midsection of the hoseI23 is positioned below the bottom wall 33 of the vat 3I andintermediate the side wall 34 of the vat 3| and the side wall I4 of thecabinet II. The lower end of the barrel I39 of the second fixture I 22is disposed below the first fixture I2I, whereby the drain pipe I I3carried by the second drain fixture I22 is disposed well below the drainopening I25 provided in the bottom wall 33 at the sump 42. Moreover, theintermediate section of the hose I23 being flexible is adapted to bemoved from an upper position disposed above the drain opening I 25 to'alower position disposed below the drain opening I25. Accordingly, whenthe midsection of the hose I23 is elevated to its upper position thecommunication between the bottom of the sump 42 and the drain pipe II3is effectively closed to prevent washing liquid contained in the sump 42from draining through the drain opening I25 into the drain pipe I I3through the communicating drain fixtures I2I and I 22 and the hose I23.On the other hand when the midsection of the hose I23 is lowered to itslower position the communication between the bottom of thesump 42 andthe drain pipe II3 is effectively opened to'permit washing liquidcontained in the sump 42 to be drained therefrom through the drainopening I25 into the drain pipe II3 through the communicating drainfixtures I2I and I22 and the hose I23. Accordingly, the drain mechanismI20 through the drain opening I25 into the drain pipe I I3 due to thefact that a smooth surface is provided between the lowermost portion ofthe sump 42 into the throat of the first drain fixture I2I, whichwashing liquid then drains through the hose I 23 and the second fixtureI22 into the drain pipe II3.

The strainer I3I positioned in the throat of the first drain fixture I2Iprevents large foreign particles from passing through the drain openingI25 into the. drain fixture I2I. Since the upper end of the breathertube I46 carried by the second drain fixture I22 is disposed above thedrain opening I25 and above the normal washing liquid level in the vat3|, the washing liquid passing through the hose I23 into the seconddrain fixture I22 and into the drain pipe I I3 does not overflowtherefrom notwithstanding the communication through the breather tubeI46 between the interior of the second drain fixture I22 and theexterior below the bottom wall 33.

Since the washing liquid contained in the sump 42 has detergentsuspended therein it is prone to carry air bubbles therewith through thedrain opening I25 into the drain fixture I2I and consequently into thehose I23 and the drain fixture I22, which air bubbles present in-thedrain mechanism I20 would tend to form a partial air lock between thedrain opening I25 and the drain pipe |I3 impeding the flow of washingliquid therethrough and causing the air trapped in the hose I23 to tendto gurgle back through the washing liquid contained therein through thedrain opening I 25. However, this partial air lock in the hose I23 isrelieved by the communication through the breather tube I46 between theexterior and the interior of the drain fixture I22. In other words theseair bubbles swept into the drain fixture I2I along with the washingliquid burst in the hose I23 and the resulting air escapes through thebreather tube I46 relieving the tendency to produce a partial air lockwithin the drain mechanism I20. Of course, it will be understood thatthe upper end of the breather tube I46 extends a suitable distance abovethe level of the drain opening I25 and this extension may be increased,if necessary, by the insertion of an upstanding section of glass orother tube, not shown, within the hollow breather tube I46. Also,certain plumbing installations tend to pocket air and thus retarddraining unless the vent arrangement is provided.

In the drain mechanism I20 the inlet throat of the drain fixture I2Isecured within the drain opening I25 is disposed at least partiallyabove the outlet port or portion of the drain fixture I2I joining theadjacent end of the hose I23 and is of a predetermined contourincreasing. in area from the upper portion thereof toward the lowerportion adjacent to the bead I30, whereby the flow of the washing liquiddraining from the vat 3| into the inlet throat of the drain fixture I2I'is only slightly reduced in response to a considerable and greaterreduction in the hydrostatic head of the washing liquid contained in thevat 3 I Thus thecontour or shape of the inlet throat of the drainfixture I2I positioned above the adjacent end of the hose I23 maintainsa relatively uniform flow of the washing liquid as the quantitativeeffect thereof is diminished due to the diminishing head of the washingliquid in the vat 3| when the drainmechanism I20 is operated into itsdraining position.

Also it will be understood that when the hose I23 occupies its upper ornon-draining position, a predetermined charge or quantity of the washingliquid is retained in the sump 42 provided in the vat 3|,notwithstanding the circumstance that some excess washing liquid may besupplied into the vat 3| bythe spraying device I09 before the inletvalve mechanism I I I is returned into its closed position followingde-energization of the associated solenoid I I2. The excess washingliquid that is supplied to the vat 3| merely overflows therefrom throughthe hose I23 in-its upper or non-draining position into the drain pipe II3, and without siphoning through the hose I23 since the hose I23 has arelatively large crosssectional area with respect to that of the fluidsupply pipe I01. In other words, the drain capacity of the hose I23greatly exceeds the supply capacity of the fluid supply pipe I01 so thatthe hose I23 may readily drain the excess washing liquid from the vat 3|that is supplied thereto via the fluid supply pipe I01 without closingthe cross-sectional area of the hose I23 so as to prevent siphoning ofthe charge of washing liquid from the vat 3| into the drain pipe'II3.Also the arrangement of the upstanding breather tube I46 positivelyprevents siphoning through the hose I23 under the conditions noted. Thusthe drain mechanism I20 insures the retention of a predeterminedquantity of washing liquid in the vat 3| when the drain mechanism 20 occupies its non-draining position.

Referring now more particularly to Figs. 1 and 3, it will be observedthat the operating mechanism I50 comprises structure I5I that is securedby a plurality of screws I52 to a downwardly extending element I53 spotwelded, or otherwise secured, to the side wall 34 adjacent to the bottomwall 33. Accordingly, the operating mechanism I50 is removably securedto the element I53 and is suspended below the bottom wall 33 of the vat3|. Also the structure I5I comprises a rearwardly and upwardly extendingarm I 54 carrying a resilient bumper I55 formed of rubber, or the like,and arranged in engagement with the bottom wall 33 just above the sump42. This suspension of the operating mechanism I50 below the bottom wall33 of the vat 3| prevents the structure I5I from pounding the bottomwall 3| during shipment of the apparatus I0. Further the structure I5|comprises two curved guide elements I56 and I5! spaced apart front andrear and extending below the midsection of the hose I23, and asubstantially S-shaped operating member I58 disposed between the guideelements I56 and I51. The'operating member I58 is pivotally mountedadjacent to the inner end there of upon a pivot pin I59 carried by thestructure I5I and is normally biased in the clockwise direction, asviewed in Fig. l, by a coil spring I60 surrounding the pivot pin I59 andextending between the structure I5| and the operating member I58. Theextreme outer end of the operating member I58 carries an upwardlyextending projection |6I underhooking the midsection of the hose I23 anddisposed between the outer surface of the hose I23 and the adjacent sidewall I4 of the cabinet II. Also the operating member I58 carries anupwardly and outwardly projecting bumper I62 formed of rubber, or thelike, and disposed inwardly with respect to the adjacent side wall ofthe midsection of the hose I23. Finally, the structure I5I carries anelectro-responsive solenoid device I63 that is provided with a movablearmature I64 that is operatively connected by a coil spring I65 to theextreme inner end of the operating member I58.

In view of the foregoing description of the operating mechanism 50, itwill be understood that when the solenoid I63 is de-energized that theoperating member I58 is normally biased by the weight of the hose I23and against the counterbalancing sprin I60 in the counterclockwisedirection, as viewed in Fig. 1, whereby the midsection of the hose I23is moved into its lower position normally to rest upon the curved guideelements I56 and I51. When the solenoid I63 is en-v ergized, thearmature I64 is attracted rotating through the coil spring I65 theoperating member I58'in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig, 1,about the pivot pin I59 with the bias of the coil spring I60; wherebythe operating member lifts or elevates the midsection of the hose I23 inguided relation between the projection I6I and the bumper I62 from itslower position to its'upper position. Accordingly, when the solenoid I63is energized the operating member I58 moves the midseotion of the hoseI23 from its lower position to its upper position effecting operation ofthe drain mechanism I 20 from its draining position into itsnon-draining position. Subsequently, when the solenoid I63 isde-energized the weight of the hose I23 returns the operating member I58in the counterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 1,-back into itsnormal position so that the operating member I58 permits the midsectionof the hoseI23 to be lowered from its upper position into its lowerposition; whereby the drain mechanism I20 is returned from itsnon-draining position back into its draining position.

Mounted'within the lower portiton of the vat 3i above the bottom wall33' and the sump 42 and surrounding the impeller 83 is a suitableelectric heater I 10 which is preferably of the sheathed resistanceconductor type; which heater I10 is employed for the purpose of dryingdishes after they have been washed and rinsed, as explained more fullyhereinafter. The opposite terminal ends "I of the heater I10 extendthrough liquid-tight openings provided in the bottom wall 33 to theexterior so that electrical connections'may be made thereto exteriorlyof the vat 3 I.

Referring now more particularly to Figs. 1 and 6, the apparatus I-comprises an electro-responsive timer I80 of the cyclic type including acasing housing an electric motor I82 of the constant speed type,associated speed reduction .and friction clutch mechanism I83 and anoperating shaft I84, four control cams CI, C2, C3 and C4 and fourcontrol switches SI, S2, S3 and S4, the control cams CI to C4,inclusive, being respectively operatively associated with the controlswitches SI to S4, inclusive. Preferably the timer motor I82 is of theTelechron type and the operating shaft I84 extends forwardly through anopening provided in the front panel 25 to the exterior, and a controlknob I88 is removably secured on the extreme outer end of the operatingshaft I84. The control knob H8 is spaced forwardly of the front surfaceof th front panel 25 and cooperates with a substantially annular trimand indexing plate I89 disposed rearwardly thereof, the operating shaftI84 extending through a hole formed in the plate I89. The plate I89 issuitably secured to the front surface of the front panel 25 and carriesthe legends off and on on the front face thereof; which legendscooperate with an index pointer I! carried on the control knob I88.Preferably the control knob I88 is formed of a suitable white plasticthat ting or control of the control cams CI, etc.; and likewise whenthecontrol knob I88 is rotated to bring the pointer I8I into registrywith the legend "on" the operating shaft I84 is rotated to effect acorresponding setting or control of the control cams CI, etc.

Referring now more particularly to-Fig. 6, it is noted that the controlcircuit includes a source of current supply of volts A. C., and ameasuring coil 202 that comprises an insulating base 220. to which ametal casing MI is secured, and four terminal prongs 222, 223, 224 and225 extending through the base 220 and secured in place. Also themeasuring coil 202 comprises a winding 226 operatively connected betweenthe terminal .prongs 222 and 225 and an associated pair of contacts 226'operatively connected between the terminal prongs 223 and 224. Thesocket 2I2 comprises an insulating base 221 carrying four spring contactterminals 228, 229, 230 and 23I extending into four correspondingopenings provided therein and adapted respectively: to receive andelectrically to engage and establish contact with the four terminalprongs 222 to 225, inclusive. Thus it will be understood thatthemeasuring coil 202 is readily engageable and disengageable withrespect to the socket 2I2 and that when the measuring coil 202 ispositioned upon the socket 2I2 the terminal prongs 222 to 225,inclusive, respectively engage and make electrical contact with theterminal springs 228 to 23I, inelusive.

Also in Fig. 6 the electrical connection and arrangement of the variouselectro-responsive devices incorporated in the apparatus I0 arediagrammatically illustrated. In the interest of simplicity the lineterminals have been indicated by the plus and minus signs on the diagramat each point where the required potential is necessary. The operatingshaft I84 is directly connected to the control knob I88 and is alsoconnected through the mechanism 583 to the timer motor I82. Also theoperating shaft I84 is rotatably supported and physically carries thecontrol cams CI to C4, inclusive, that are respectively operativelyassociated with the control switches Si to S4, inclusive. Moreover, inthe diagram the various operating times of the different steps in thecycle of operation of the apparatus I0 are indicated, the control camsCI, etc., being laid out longitudinally for convenience and the camsections corresponding to the long time intervals being broken toconserve space.

As illustrated, one terminal, indicated at of the source of supply isconnected to one spring of the door switch 8|; while the other terminal,in-

dicated at of the source of supply is connected to one terminal of theoperating motor 88, to one terminal of the timer motor I82 and to theintermediate spring of the control switch S4. The other terminal of theoperating motor 86 is connected to the contact spring 23I and to thelower spring of the control switch S2; while the other terminal of thetimer motor I82 is-connected to one terminal of the heating element I10and to thelower spring of the control switch SI. The other spring of thedoor switch 8I is connected to the intermediate spring of the controlswitch SI; and the other terminal of the heating element I10 isconnected to the upper spring of the control switch S4. One terminal ofthe inlet valve solenoid H2 is connected to one terminal of the drainvalve solenoid I63 and to th lower spring of the control switch S4. Theother terminal of the inlet valve solenoid H2 is connected to theterminal spring 228; and the other terminal of the drain valve solenoidI63 is connected to the lower spring of the control switch S3. Theterminal spring 230 is connected to the upper spring of the controlswitch S2; and the terminal spring 228 is connected to the upper springof the conating shaft I84 occupies its normal position causing thecontrol cams CI, etc., to operate the respectively associated controlswitches SI, etc., into their normal positions illustrated. At this timethe contacts X and Y in the control switch SI occupy their openpositions; the first and second contacts in the control switch S2 occupytheir respective closed and open positions; the contacts in the controlswitch S3 occupy their open position; and the first and second contactsin the control switch S4 occupy their respective closed and openpositions. Also at this time when the door 50 occupies its open positionthe door switch BI is operated to its open position preventing operationof any of the electro-responsive apparatus.

Considering now the cycle of operation of the apparatus I0 the personloads the dishes and other utensils into the rack structure, not shown,and moves the rack structure from over the door 60 into the vat 3|, andthen moves the door 60 from its open position into its closed positioneffecting closure of the door switch 8|. The person then rotates thecontrol knob I88 from its off position into its on position; whereby theoperating shaft I84 is rotated in the clockwise direction, as viewed inFig. 1, causing the control cams CI, etc. to be rotated in the clockwisedirection, toward the left as viewed n Fig. 6. At this time the controlcam CI engages the lower sprng in the control switch SI closing thecontacts X and Y. When the contacts Y in the control switch SI are thusclosed, a direct circuit, including the first contacts of the controlswitch S2 and the door switch 8|, is completed for initiating operationof the operating motor 86. Also when the contacts X in the controlswitch SI are tnus closed, a circuit, including the door switch 8|, iscompleted for initiating operation of the timer motor I82. Uponoperating the operating motor 86 rotates the operating shaft 85; wherebythe impeller 83 is rotated in the counterclockwise direction, as viewedin Fig. 3. Upon operating the time motor I82 rotates the operating shaftI84 through the mechanism I83 slowly at a predetermined rate further inthe clockwise direction; whereby the operating cams CI, etc., are movedgradually at a predetermined rate toward the left, as viewed in Fig. 6.

After an elapsed time of approximately ten seconds the control cam C2engages the intermediate spring of the control switch S2 opening thefirst contacts and closing the second contacts thereof. When the firstcontacts of the control switch S2 are thus opened the previously traceddirect circuit for energizing the operating motor 86 is interrupted, anda normally completed shunt, including the terminal springs 228 and 23Iand the terminal prongs 222 and 225, for shortcircuiting the winding 226of the measuring coil 202 is interrupted; whereby the winding 226 of themeasuring coil 202 is inserted in series cir- 16 cult relation with theoperating motor 86. This series circuit for the operating motor 86 andthe winding 226 of the measuring coil 202 extends from one terminal ofthe source of supply via the door switch 8|, the contacts Y of thecontrol switch SI, the terminal spring 228, the terminal prong 222, thewinding 226 of the measuring coil 202, the terminal prong 225, theterminal spring 23I and the operating motor 86 to the other terminal ofthe source of supply. Accordingly, the winding 226 of the measuring coil202 being in series circuit relation with the operating motor 86 metersthe current drawn by the operating motor 86, which current is notexcessive at this time since the operating motor 86 has already had anopportunity to gain full speed and there is no washing liquid in thesump 42 in the vat 3|.

When the second contacts of the control switch S2 are thus closed acircuit is completed for energizing the inlet valve solenoid II2; whichcircuit extends from one terminal of the source of supply via the doorswitch 8|, the Y contacts of the control switch SI, the second contactsof the control switch S2, the terminal spring 230, the terminal prong224, the contacts 226', the terminal prong 223, the terminal spring 229,the inlet valve solenoid I |2 and the first contacts of the controlswitch S4 to the other terminal of the source of supply. This circuitfor energizing the inlet valve solenoid I I2 includes the contacts 226of the measuring coil 202; however, these contacts are closed at thistime since the current traverses the winding 226 of the measuring coil202 and the operating motor 86 is not excessive as previously noted, thewinding 22B of the measuring coil 202 being of the marginal type. Whenthe inlet valve solenoid H2 is thus energized the inlet valve mechanismI I I is operated to its open position as previously explained; wherebywashing liquid is supplied from the liquid supply pipe I0I to thespraying device I09. The washing liquid sprays downwardly from thespraying device I09 through the dishes supported by the rack structure,not shown, and accumulates in the sump 42. This washing liquid passesfrom the sump 42 through the drain opening into the drain fixture I2Iand thence through the hose I23 and the drain fixture I22 into the drainpipe 3 since the drain mechanism I20 occupies its draining position atthis time. Some of the washing liquid in the sump 42 may pass throughthe reticulated screen I06 and may be caught and flung upwardly andoutwardly through the dishes supported by the rack structure, not shown,by the blades 84 of the impeller 83, although this action is notconsiderable at this time since the drain mechanism I20 occupies itsdraining position. Accordingly, the dishes supported by the rackstructure, not shown, in the vat 3| are subjected to a first spray stepthat is carried out through a time interval of approximately secondsunder the control of the timer I80.

At the conclusion of this first spray step the control cam C3 isoperated to engage the lower spring of the control switch S3 in order toclose the contacts thereof completing a circuit for energizing the drainsolenoid I63. This circuit extends from one terminal of the source ofsupply via the door switch 8|, the contacts Y of control switch SI, thecontacts of the control switch S3, the drain solenoid I63 and the firstcontacts of the switch S4 to the other terminal of the source of supply.When the drain solenoid I63 is thus energized, the operating mechanism Iis controlled in order to cause the operating member I60 to elevate themidsection of the hose I26 operating the drain mechanism I20 into itsnondraining position; whereby the washing liquid accumulating inthe sump42 is retained therein aiter the drain fixture I2I and the adjacentsection of the hose I23 is first filled with the washing liquid. At thistime the inlet valve mechanism III still occupies its open position andthe operating motor 66 is running. Accordingly, the washing liquidsprayed. through the dishes sup ported by the rack structure, not shown,from the spraying device I accumulates in the sump 42 since the drainmechanism I20 occupies its nondraining position. The washing liquidaccumulating in the sump 42 of the vat 3| passes through the reticulatedscreen I06 and is caught by the blades 04 of the impeller 83 and isflung upwardly and outwardly through the rack structure, not shown, andthe dishes supported thereby against the walls of the vat 3| and thedoor 60 and again returns to the sump 42. The washing liquid as-it isflung upwardly and outwardly has a generally rotary motion in thecounterclockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 3, since the impeller 83is rotated in this direction as previously noted.

The supply of washing liquid from the spraying device I09 continues, andas the quantity of washing liquid accumulating in the sump 42 increasesthe load imposed upon the impeller 83, and consequently upon theoperating motor 86, is gradually increased; whereby the current traversig the operating motor 86 and the winding 226 of the measuring coil 202is gradually increased. When a predetermined quantity of washing liquidaccumulates in the sump 42 a corresponding predetermined load is imposedupon the operating motor 66; whereby the current traversing theoperating motor 86 and the winding 226 of the measuring coil 202 reachesa predetermined value. When this current traversing the winding 226 ofthe measuring coil 202 reaches the predetermined value mentioned,indicating that the vat 3| now contains a full and predeterminedquantity of washing liquid, the winding 226controls the contacts 226',since it is of the marginal type as previously noted. More particularly,the contacts 226' are opened interrupting the circuit for energizing theinlet valve solenoid I I2; whereby the inlet valve mechanism III isoperated to its closed position. Specifically,

the inlet valve mechanism II I is of the slow-clos ingtype, aspreviously noted, and when it is completely closed the supply of washingliquid from the liquid supply pipe IN to the spraying device I09 is cutoff.

Approximately 45 seconds after the drain mechanism I20 is operated toits non-draining position the control cam C2 disengages the incordingly,the-winding 226 is'de-energized bringing about reclosure of the contacts226' however, without effect at this time since the second contactsofthe control switch S2 are open. Accordingly, the connectionsabovedescribed provide a timed arrangement for effecting thede-energiza- 18 tion of the inlet valve solenoid H2 and the consequentoperation of the inlet valve mechanism III to its closed position in theevent this result has not already been brought about by operation of themeasuring coil 202 within the 45 seconds period mentioned.

The first washing step continues for a total time of approximately 330seconds following the operation of the drain mechanism I20 into itsnon-draining position, and within this time interval and in response tothe accumulation of a predetermined quantity of washing liquid in thesump 42 a given charge of detergent is introduced into the washingliquid in order that the first washing step may be efiective to removegrease and other foreign materials from the dishes supported by the rackstructure, not shown. The arrangement for introducing the detergent intothe washing liquid is disclosed in the previously mentioned Walkerapplication and is based upon the accumulation of a, predeterminedquantity of washing liquid in, the sump 42; whereby the washing liquidaccumulating in the sump 42 is flushed or washed into the detergent cup,not shown, carried by the inner body sheet 62 of the door 60 causing thedetergent to be washed into the body'of the washing liquid contained inthe vat 3i. This introduction of detergent into the washing liquid isaccomplished shortly following the closure of the drain mechanism I20 sothat the detergent is present in the washing liquid during a substantialpart of the time interval of the first washing step. Preferably thedetergent that is employed is of the type sold under the trade nameCalgonite that comprises about 40 per cent sodium hexametaphosphate and60 per cent sodium metasilicate.

At the conclusion of the first washing step the control cam C3disengages the lower spring of the control switch S3, whereby thecontacts thereof are opened interrupting the circuit for energizingthedrain solenoid I63. When the drain solenoid I63 is thus de-energizedthe operating mechanism I50 is controlled to operate the drain mechanismI20 back into its draining position; and specifically the operatingmember I58 is released permitting the midsection of the hose I23 to bereturned to its lower position. At this tim the washing liquid and thecarried detergent drain from the sump 42 through the drain opening I25into the drain fixture I2I and thence through the hose I23 and into thedrain fixture I22 and finally into the drain pipe I I3. The washingliquid carrying the detergent is prone to carry therewith air bubbles;however, no partial air lock is produced in the hose I23 by virtue ofthe arrangement including the breather tube I46 previously described.The strainer I3I prevents large foreign objects from being carried withthe washing li'quid'into the drain fixture I2 I.

The washing liquid contained in the sump 42 is drained into the fixtureI2I in a, very short interval of time; and approximately 45 secondsafter the drain mechanism I20 is operated to its open position thecontrol cam C2 again engages the intermediate spring of the controlswitch S2 effecting opening of the first contacts and closing of thesecond contacts thereof. When the control switch S2 is thus operated thewinding 226 of the measuring coil 202 is again inserted in series withthe operating motor 86 and the inlet valve solenoid H2 is againenergized, all in the manner previously explained. At this time theinlet valve mechanism III is operated to its open position effecting the.supply of washing liquid from the liquid supply pipe II to the sprayingdevice I09, whereby the dishes supported by the rack structure, notshown, are again sprayed, and the washing liquid accumulating in thesump 42 passes through the drain mechanism I20 in its draining positioninto the drain pipe II3. This second spray step is carried out for atime interval of approximately seconds; whereupon the control cam C3re-engages the lower spring of the control switch S3 closing thecontacts thereof and again energizing the drain solenoid I53. The drainmechanism I 20 is again operated to its nondraining position causing thewashing liquid to be retained in the sump 42, initiating a secondwashing step.

The second washing step proceeds in the manner of the first washing stepdescribed above; whereby the inlet valve mechanism III is subsequentlyoperated to its closed position under the control of the measuring coil202 dependent upon the load upon the operating motor 85 or under thecontrol of the control cam C2 and the associated control switch S2; allin the manner previously explained. In any case after a time interval ofapproximately 45 seconds following operation of the drain mechanism Iinto its non-draining position, the control cam C2 disengages theintermediate spring of th control switch S2 opening the second contactsand closing the first contacts thereof in order positively to insurede-energization of the inlet valve solenoid H2 and short-circuiting ofthe winding 226-of the measuring coil 202. At this time the inlet valvemechanism III occupies its closed position and the drain mechanism I20occupies its non- 1 draining position; whereby the second washing stepcontinues in the manner previously explained. The second washing stepcontinues for a time interval of approximately 330 seconds following theclosure of the drain mechanism I20; whereupon the control cam C3disengages the lower spring of the control switch S3 effecting thede-energization of the drain solenoid I63 and the consequent operationof the drain mechanism I 20 to its draining position.

The washing liquid accumulated in the sump 42 is drained into the drainpipe H3 in the manner previously explained in a short time interval; and

approximately 45 seconds after the drain mechanism I20 is operated toits draining position the control cam C2 again engages the intermediatespring of the control switch S2. The first and second contacts of thecontrol switch S2 are respectively opened and closed effecting insertionof the winding 226 of the measuring coil 202 in series with theoperating motor 86 and energization of the inlet valve solenoid I I2.The inlet valve mechanism I I I is again operated to its open positionin order to initiate a third spray step. The washing liquid suppliedfrom the liquid supply pipe I01 to the spraying device I09 is sprayedthrough the dishes supported by the rack structure, not shown, and isdrained from the sump 42 into the drain pipe I I3. This spray stepcontinues throughout a time interval of approximately ten secondsfollowing operation of the inlet valve mechanism III to its openposition; whereupon the control cam C3 re-engages the lower spring ofthe control switch S3 closing the contacts thereof and effectingenergization of the drain solenoid I63. The drain mechanism I20 isoperated to its non-draining position in order again to cause washingliquid to accumulate in the sump 42 initiating a first rinsing step.

The first rinsing step proceeds in a manner substantially identical tothe first washing step described above; whereby the inlet valvemechanism III is subsequently operated to its closed position under thecontrol of the measuring coil 202 dependent upon the load upon theoperating motor 86 or under the control of the control cam C2 and theassociated control switch S2; all in the manner previously explained. Inany case after a time interval of approximately 45 seconds followingoperation of the drain mechanism I20 into its non-draining position, thecontrol cam C2 disengages the intermediate spring of the control switchS2 opening the second contacts and closing the first' contacts thereofin order positively to insure de-energization of the inlet valvesolenoid H2 and short-circuiting of the winding 226 of the measuringcoil 202. At this time the inlet valve mechanism III occupies its closedposition and the drain mechanism I20 occupies its non-draining position;whereby the first rinsing step continues for a tim interval ofapproximately 90 seconds following the operation of the drain mechanismI20 into its non-draining position; whereupon the control cam C3disengages the lower spring of the control switch S3 effecting thede-energization of the drain solenoid I63 and the consequent operationof the drain mechanism I20 to its draining position.

The washing liquid accumulated in the sump 42 is drained into the drainpipe H3 in the manner previously explained in a short time interval; andapproximately 45 seconds after the drain mechanism I20 is operated toits draining position the control cam C2 again engages the intermediatespring of the control switch S2. The first and second contacts of thecontrol switch S2 are respectively opened and closed effecting insertionof the winding 226 of the measuring coil 202 in series with theoperating motor 86 and energization of the inlet valve solenoid I I2.The inlet valve mechanism III is again operated to its open position inorder to initiate a fourth spray step, The washing liquid supplied fromthe liquid supply pipe I01 to the spraying device I09 is sprayed throughthe dishes supported by the rack structure, not shown, and is drainedfrom the sump 42 to the drain pipe II3. This spray step continuesthroughout a time interval of approximately 10 seconds followingoperation of the inlet valve mechanism I II to its open position;whereupon the control cam C3 re-engages the lower spring of the controlswitch S3 closing the contacts thereof and effecting energization of thedrain solenoid I63. The drain mechanism I20 is operated to itsnon-draining position in order again to cause washing liquid toaccumulate in the sump 42 initiating a second rinsing step.

The second rinsing step proceeds in a manner identical to the firstrinsing step described above; whereby the inlet valve mechanism III issubsequently operated to its closed position under the control of themeasuring coil 202 dependent upon the load upon the operating motor 86Or under the control of the control cam C2 and the associated controlswitch S2; all in themanner previously explained. In any case after atime interval of approximately 45 seconds following the operation of thedrain mechanism I20 into its non-draining position, the control cam C2disengages the intermediate sprin of the control switch S2 opening thesecond contacts and'closing the first contacts thereof in orderpositively to insure de-energization of the inlet valve solenoid I I2and short-circuiting of the winding 226 21 of the measuring coil 202. Atthis time the inlet valve mechanism III occupies its closed positionand'the drain mechanism I20 occupies its nondraining position; wherebythe second rinse step continues for a time interval of approximately 90seconds following the operation of the drain mechanism I20 into itsnon-draining position; whereupon the cam C8 disengages the lower springof the control switch S8 effecting deenergization of the drain solenoidI88 and the consequent operation of the drain mechanism I20 to itsdraining position. v

The washing liquid accumulated in the sump 42 is drained into the drainpipe I I3 in the manner previously explained in a short time interval;and approximately 45 seconds after the drain mechanism I20 is operatedto its draining position the control cam 04 engages the intermediatespring of the control switch 84 respectively opening and closing thefirst and second contacts thereof. when the first contacts or thecontrol switch S4 are thus opened further points in the circuits forenergizing the inlet valve solenoid H2 and the drain solenoid I08 areinterrupted, thereby positively to insure that the inlet valve mechanismIII occupies its closed position and the drain mechanism I20 occupiesits draining position. When the second contacts of the conheatingelement I10; whereby heat produced by the heating element I10 in the vat3| is circulated in the'vat 8| by the blades 84 or the impeller 08 sinceoperation of the operating motor 80 is continued at this time. The hotair circulated in the vat 8| by the impeller 80 is directed into contactwith and through the dishes sup.- ported by the rack structure, notshown, and thence back into contact with the electric heater Thisinitial drying step is continued for a time interval of approximately1200 seconds, whereupon the shoulder provided on the control cam CIrides under the lower spring of the control switch SI effecting openingof the Y contacts thereof while the X contacts thereof are retainedclosed. Opening of the Y contacts of the control switch SI interruptsthe circuit for operating the operating motor 86; while the closed Xcontacts of the control switch SI retain completed the circuit forenergizing the heating element I10. Ac-

cordingly, the operating motor 86 stops arresting rotation of theimpeller 83 while the supply of heat to the heating element I10continues. Thus drying of the dishes supported by the rack structure,not shown, continues through a final drying step after operation of theimpeller 83 has been arrested; which final drying step continues for atime interval of approximately 600 seconds; whereupon the control cam CIdisengages the lower spring of the control switch SI and the control camC4 disengages the intermediate spring of the control switch S4. When thecontrol cam CI disengages the lower spring of the control switch SI theX contacts thereof are opened interrupting the circuit for energizingthe heating element I10 and interrupting the operating circuit for thetimer motor I82. When the control cam C4 disengages the intermediatespring of the control switch $4 the first and second contacts thereofare respectively closed and opened, respectively preparing a point inthe circuits for energizing the inlet valve solenoid I I2 and the drainsolenoid I08 and interrupting a further point in the circuit forenergizing the heating element I10. I

At this time the operating shaft I84 of the timer I80 has been rotatedfrom its on" position in the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 1.back into its oil position; operation of the timer I80 has beenarrested; and the cycle of operation or the apparatus I0 has beencompleted. Thus it will be understood that when the control knob I88 ofthe timer I80 is rotated from its off position approximately 30 degreesin the clockwise direction, as viewed in Fig. 1,

into its "on" position that operation of the timer l80 is initiated.More particularly, the timer motor I82 efi'ects continued rotation ofthe con- ,trol knob I88 in the clockwise direction, as viewed ,in Fig.1, back into its 011" position, whereupon operation or the timer III isautomatically arrested. As the operating shaft I84 is rotated from its"on" position back into its 011" position in the clockwise direction, asviewed in Fig. 1, it is rotated progressively through the differentcontrol positions thereoi' causing the dlflerent control cams CI to C4,inclusive, selectively to govern the control switches SI to S4,inclusive, whereby the apparatus 10 is automatically operated throughits various spraying, washing, rinsing and drying steps as explainedabove.

Also it will be understood that the mechanism I83'permits rotation ofthe operating shaft I84 in either direction by the control knob I88 atany time independently of the timer I80 so that any one or more of thesteps in the above described cycle may be selectively omitted orrepeated by appropriate manual rotation of the control knob I88 in theproper direction. For example, the final drying step may be omitted byrotating the control knob I88 in the clockwise direction back into itsoil position when the control cam C4 first operates the control switchS6, thereby reducing the length of the operating cycle by approximatelythirty minutes. This facility is especially useful when it is desired towash a number of loads of dishes and automatic drying thereof is notimportant to the operator, or hand-drying thereof is particularly wishedby the operator.

During the operation of the dishwashing apparatus I0 through the timedcycle above-described, the door 50 must be retained in its closedposition as previously explained in order to retain the door switch 8|in its closed position, as it will be observed that any time the door 50is operated to its open position that the door switch BI is operated toits open position arresting operation of the apparatus I0. During thevarious washing and rinsing steps when considerable washing liquid isaccumulated in the sump 42, it is pointed out that the reticulatedscreen I88 prevents large particles of foreign matter such,

' for example, as lettuce leaves, or the like, ac-

cumulating in the sump 42 from being caught in the blades 84 of theimpeller 83 and again flung upwardly and outwardly thereby into the rackstructure, not shown, and the dishes supported thereby. Finally at theconclusion of the timed cycle the dishes supported by the rackstructure, not shown, have not only been thoroughly washed and rinsed,but they have also been dried. At this time the door 60 may be movedfrom its closed position into its open position, and the rack structure,not shown, may be moved from its fully pushed-in position with respectto the vat 3i into its fully withdrawn position 23 with respect to thevat 3| over the door ll in its open position, and the dishes removedtherefrom and placed in a kitchen cabinet, or the like, if desired.

In the operation of the dishwashing apparatus ll after the dishes havebeen loaded into the rack structure, not shown, and the rack structurehas been moved into its fully pushed-in position in the vat ll apredetermined quantity or charge of detergent is placed in the detergentcup, not shown, carried by the inner body sheet 2 of the door 60, andthe door 80 is moved from its open position to its closed position bythe handle ll. At this time a timed cycle of operation of the'dishwashing apparatus I is initiated by manipulating the control knobI" in the manner previously explained.

As disclosed in the previously mentioned Walker application the vat 3iand the door 0 are of the gasketless type and the interior of the vat 3|is vented to the exterior through the space between the outer and innerbody sheets ll and 62 during opeij ajtion of the apparatus II.

The connection and arrangement of the control circuit for thedishwashing apparatus II is disclosed and claimed in the copendingapplication of Douglas F. Illian, Serial No. 91,906, flied May 7, 1949.

In view of the foregoing it is apparent thatthere has been providedwashing apparatus embodying improved drain mechanism that is of simpleand rugged construction incorporating no nice fltting valve elements andvalve seats.

While there has been described what is at present considered to be thepreferred embodiment of the invention, it will be understood thatvarious modifications may be made therein, and it is intended to coverin the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the truespirit and scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:

1. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adaptedto contain washing fluidand having a drain opening in the lower portion thereof, a drain pipedisposed below said drain opening, a drain conduit connecting said drainopening and said drain pipe, said drain conduit including a movablesection capable of being moved between an upper position disposed abovesaid drain opening and a lower position disposed below said drainopening, said washing fluid in said vat being retained therein when saidmovable section occupies its upper position and being drained therefromthrough said drain opening and said drain conduit into said drain pipewhen said movable section occupies its lower position, means for biasingsaid movable section into its lower position, and an electromagneticactuator operable to lift said movable section against said biasingmeans into its upper position.

2. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluidand having a drain opening in the lower portion thereof, a drain pipedisposed below said drain opening, a drain conduit connecting said drainopening and said drain pipe, said drain conduit including a flexiblesection capable of being moved between an upper position disposed abovesaid drain opening and a lower position disposed below said drainopening, said washing fluid in said vat being retained therein when saidflexible section occupies its upper position and being drained therefromthrough said drain opening and said drain conduit into said drain pipewhen said flexible section occupies its lower position, means forbiasing said flexible section into one of its positions, andelectro-responsive means for moving said flexible section against saidbiasing means into the other of its positions.

3. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluidand having a drain opening in the lower portion thereof, a drain pipedisposed below said drain opening, a drain conduit connecting said drainopening and said drain pipe, said drain conduit including a flexiblesection capable of being moved between an upper position disposed abovesaid drain opening and a lower position disposed below said drainopening, said washing fluid in said vat being retained therein when saidflexible section occupies its upper position and being drained therefromthrough said drain opening and said drain conduit into said drain pipewhen said flexible section occupies its lower position, the weight ofsaid flexible section biasing it into its lower position, and meansincluding an electromagnetic actuator for lifting said flexible sectioninto its upper position.

4. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluidand having a drain opening in the lower portion thereof, a first elasticdrain fixture frictionally secured in fluid-tight relation in said drainopening and communicating with the lower portion of said vat, a seconddrain flxture disposed below said flrst drain flxture, a drain pipecommunicating with said second drain flxture, a flexible drain hoseextending between and communicating with said drain fixtures; amidsection of said drain hose being capable of being moved between upperand lower positions respectively disposed above and below said firstdrain fixture, said washing fluid in said vat being retained thereinwhen said midsection occupies its upper position and being drainedtherefrom through said flrst drain fixture and said drain hose and saidsecond drain fixture into said drain pipe when said midsection occupiesits lower position, means for biasing said midsection into its lowerposition, and an electromagnetic actuator operable to lift saidmidsection against said biasing means into its upper position.

5. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluidcarrying a detergent and having a drain opening in the lower portionthereof, a drain pipe disposed below said drain opening, a drain conduitconnecting said drain opening and said drain pipe, said drain conduitincluding a movable section capable of being moved between an upperposition disposed above said drain opening and a lower position disposedbelow said drain opening, said washing fluid in said vat being retainedtherein when said movable section occupies its upper position and beingdrained therefrom through said drain opening and said drain conduit intosaid drain pipe when said movable section occupies its lower position,said washing fluid in said vat draining therefrom through said drainopening into said drain conduit being prone to carry air bubblestherewith due to the carried detergent resulting in a partial air lockin said drain conduit, an upstanding breather tube carried by said drainconduit and communicating between the interior thereof and the exterior,the upper open end of said breather tube being disposed above said drainopening so as to prevent said washing fluid from escaping therethroughwhile permitting the escape of air therethrough in order to break thepartial air lock in said drain conduit, means for biasing said movablesection into its lower position, and an elec tromagnetic actuatoroperable to lift said movable section against said biasing means intoits upper position.

6. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluidcarrying a detergent and having a drain opening in the lower portionthereof, a first elastic drain fixture frictionally secured influid-tight relation in said drain opening and communicating with thelower portion of said vat, a second drain fixture carried by the lowerportion of said vat exteriorly thereof and disposed below said firstdrain fixture, a drain pipe communicating with said second drainfixture, a flexible drain hose extending between and communicating withsaid drain fixtures, a midsection of said drain hose being capable ofbeing moved between upper and lower positions respectively disposedabove and below said first drain fixture, said washing fluid in said vatbeing retained therein when said midsection occupies its upper positionand being drained therefrom through said first drain fixture and saiddrain hose and said second drain fixture into said drain pipe when saidmidsection occupies its lower positidn, said washing fluid in said vatdraining therefrom through said first drain fixture into said drain hosebeing prone to carry air bubbles therewith due to the carried detergentresulting in a partial air lock in said drain hose, an upstandingbreather tube carried by said second drain fixture and communicatingbetween the interior thereof and the exterior, the upper open end ofsaid breather tube being disposed above said drain opening so as toprevent said washing fluid from escaping therethrough while permittingthe escape of air therethrough in orderto break the partial air lock insaid drain conduit, means for biasing said midsection 'ihto its lowerposition, and an electromagnetic actuator operable to lift saidmidsection against said biasing means into its upper position.

'7. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluid,a fluid supply pipe, means including an inlet valve for selectivelycontrolling the supply or said washing fluid from said fluid supply pipeinto said vat, said vat having a drain opening in the lower portionthereof, a drain pipe disposed below said drain opening, a drain conduithaving its opposite ends respectively connected to said drain openingand to said drain pipe, said drain conduit including a movableintermediate section capable of being moved between an upper positiondisposed above said drain opening and a lower position disposed belowsaid drain opening, a substantially predetermined quantity of saidwashing fluid being retained in said vat when said movable sectionoccupies its upper position and substantially all of said washing fluidbeing drained from said vat through said drain opening and said drainconduit into said drain pipe when said movable section occupies itslower position, any of said washing fluid in excess of saidpredetermined quantity 26 that is supplied from said fluid supply pipeto said vat when said movable section occupies its upper position beingdrained therefrom through said drain opening and said drain conduit intosaid drain pipe, said drain conduit having a relatively largecross-sectional area with respect to that of said fluid supply pipe toprevent siphoning therethrough when said movable section occupies itsupper position, means for biasing said movable section into its lowerposition, and an electromagnetic actuator operable to lift said movablesection against said biasing means into its upper position.

.8. Washing apparatus comprising a vat adapted to contain washing fluid,a fluid supply pipe, an inlet valve operative between open and closedpositions selectively to control the supply of said washing fluid fromsaid fluid supply pipe into said vat, means for selectively operatingsaid inlet valve to admit substantially a predetermined quantity of saidwashing fluid into said vat, said vat having a drain opening in thelower portion thereof, a drain pipe disposed below said drain opening, adrain conduit having its opposite ends respectively connected to saiddrain opening and to said drain pipe, said drain conduit including amovable intermediate section capable of being moved between an upperposition disposed above said drain opening and a lower position disposedbelow said drain opening, substantially said predetermined quantity ofsaid washing fluid being retained in said vat when said movable sectionoccupies its upper position and substantially all of said washing fluidbeing drained from said vat through said drain opening and said drainconduit into said drain pipe when said movable section occupies itslower position, any of said washing fluid in excess of saidpredetermined quantity that is supplied from said fluid supply pipe tosaid vat when said movable section occupies its. upper position beingdrained therefrom through said drain opening and said drain conduit intosaid drain pipe, said drain conduit having a relatively largecross-sectional area with respect to that of said fluid supply pipe toprevent siphoning therethrough when said movable section occupies itsupper position. and means for selectively moving said movable sectionbetween its upper and lower positions.

. EDGAR S. STODDARD.

References Cited in the file of this patent UNITED STATES PATENTS NumberName Date 687,806 Williams Dec. 3, 1901 1,516,802 Wellman Nov. 25, 19241,720,643 Davies July 9, 1929 1,854,228 Schenck Apr. 19, 1932 1,875,286Waugh Aug. 30, 1932 2,288,141 Oliver June 30, 1942 FOREIGN PATENTSNumber Country Date 742,365 France Dec. 27, I932

